Suicide attack in Tel Aviv as elections approach

By
Euronews

A suicide bomber has blown himself up in Tel Aviv, raising the spectre of further violence as Palestinians and Israelis prepare for elections. The attacker was the only victim of the blast, although 30 other people were reportedly injured. Witnesses say he posed as a street vendor and went up to a cafe near the old bus station before setting off the device. Islamic Jihad has claimed responsibility for the attack. The militant group, which is sworn to Israel’s destruction, says a 20-year-old Palestinian was the perpetrator.

The attack represents the first major challenge for interim Prime Minister Ehud Olmert, who has taken the reins of power as Prime Minister Ariel Sharon lies in a coma after suffering a massive stroke earlier this month. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas branded it an attempt to sabotage the Palestinian elections.